Steroid ointment uses

The corticosteroids are a class of compounds comprising steroid hormones secreted
by the adrenal cortex and their synthetic analogs. In pharmacologic doses, corticosteroids
are used primarily for their anti-inflammatory and/or immunosuppressive effects.
Topical corticosteroids such as clobetasol propionate are effective in the treatment
of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses primarily because of their anti-inflammatory,
antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions. However, while the physiologic ,
pharmacologic, and clinical effects of the corticosteroids are well known, the
exact mechanisms of their actions in each disease are uncertain.

You can buy some topical corticosteroids "over-the-counter" without a prescription. For example, for dermatitis, you can buy the steroid cream called hydrocortisone 1% from your pharmacy. Do not apply this to your face unless your doctor has told you to do so. This is because it may trigger a skin condition affecting the face ( acne or rosacea. ) Long-term use may also damage the skin. On your face this would be more noticeable than the rest of your body. So usually only weak steroids are used on the face. Those which are suitable are prescription-only.